A Compact 3D Printed Text-to-Braille Converting Device with Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

One of the advanced technologies designed for visually impaired people is the mechanical text-to-braille converter. In the last few decades, researchers have been involved in developing modern refreshable braille modules or displays. The Braille system is constructed from six dots in a grid of two columns containing three dots each. Raised dots present the letters of the alphabet. The main challenge is developing a mechanism for six dot movement which should be compact to fit the one-finger size. Modern braille displays are made by MEMS (Micro- electromechanical Systems) devices which are not affordable for a wide range of users. This paper presents a prototype of the mechanical braille module that can be used as a text-to-braille converter. The main design parameters are cost, compactness, and easiness in controlling. The device includes an OCR system that uses a camera to recognize letters via image processing. The data from image processing is sent to the controller to manipulate the movement of the six dots by using servo motors. The text-to-voice function is also included to extend the functionality of the device. Most of the parts of the device can be 3D printed, which makes manufacturing easier and allows for customization. The obtained prototype showed the feasibility of the device and highlighted areas for improvement in its design and functionality.